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Preparation and Packing Information Chile

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Sustainability

100%

Activity Level

90%

White Water Rafting

50%

Rock Climbing

15%

Trekking

15%

Canyoneering

15%

Other Activities

5%

All-Inclusive Adventure Tour

Experience the very best nature has to offer

At 4 hours away from the nearest city, our Award-winning Patagonian adventure is the world’s most sustainable destination. With its majestic landscapes, tree house and cave camp accommodations under the stars and the ride down the fastest river on the planet, you’ll be immediately connected to your natural surroundings. Our locally sourced food is providing via oxcart throughout the adventure and cooked naturally with hardwood from the forest and carved out stone ovens. Other features include horseback riding through the mountain range, zip lining into crystal clear turquoise waters and an unimaginable campfire under a completely star filled sky. Sign up today with a fully refundable deposit.

Participants take an evening flight from North America to Santiago, Chile. Those choosing to do a group flight will meet at check-in at the airport with their Exploration Fitness guide.

Day 2

Santiago/Puerto Montt/Terminador Camp

Arriving in Santiago this morning, you transfer (in the same airport) to your flight south to Puerto Montt. When arriving at Puerto Montt this morning, you will be met by an Exploration Fitness guide who escorts you to the commuter flight to Chaiten.

The half hour flight is spectacular as we follow the rugged coastline of Pumilin National Park where deep fiords connect the ocean to wild rivers, framed within a verdant rain forest that climbs to the snow line of the Patagonia Andes that pierce the clouds. Just before landing, we get a bird’s eye view of the still smoldering Chaiten Volcanoe which erupted in 2008, burying 90% of the town in cement like ash deposited by diverted, swollen rivers. Seeing cars, shops and houses frozen in Pompaiiesque fashion, it’s hard to believe that there wasn’t a single fatality.

After a tour of the town, we board the bus and drive one hour to the glacier hike trailhead. The entire drive is gorgeous as the road passes beneath giant snow-capped peaks and hanging glaciers in a deep glaciated valley. Upon reaching the trailhead, we embark on a stunning 2 hour (R/T) hike through rain forest wilds and beneath towering waterfalls to the unique spectacle of blue glacier ice meeting a lush green rain forest.

Post hike we arrive at our first of four stunning private camps on the Futaleufu, the Terminador Camp, has a mile of private river front and sits on a dramatic tree lined bluff over the raging river. A beautiful trail winds through the trees the entire length of the camp offering stunning views of the mile long rapid which churns the water into every imaginable shade of azure, white and turquoise. Hidden in the trees are 14 private, two person, hand-hewn wooden cliff dwellings each with beds and a bird’s eye view of the surging flow.

Located near the center of the camp is an 18-person wooden hot tub with a cypress deck. The deck is scribed around trees and giant rocks and tucked behind a truck size boulder that acts as both a screen from the river and a natural veranda. Sitting or standing a person is above the top of the rock and sees an unimpeded view up and down the entire mile long rapid and surrounding canyon. A trail from the deck leads down to the water’s edge where there is a natural stone couch. This river-carved smooth granite boulder has natural seats with backrests for 5 or a person lying down. A professional masseuse, chef and videographer accompany most expeditions. That evening we have a welcome dinner.

Day 3

Terminator Camp – Raft Training and Kayaking

This morning we hike out of camp and take a 5 minute bus ride to our raft training put in. After a safety talk and flip drill we run a series of wonderful class 4 rapids. In the early afternoon we take out and drive 15 minutes to our inflatable kayak put in of the Rio Azul, a beautiful turquoise tributary of the Futaleufu. After kayak lesson we run the class 2 Azul down to the confluence with the Futaleufu and then kayak this beginner stretch of the Futaleufu down to the Terminador Camp where we spend the night.

Day 4

Exploration Fitness Cave Camp

Today we enter the wild, sheer-walled Class 5 Infierno Canyon. Racing between imposing walls, hundreds of feet high, the pulsing river boasts some of the most impressive commercially run rapids in the world including Infierno, Purgatorio and Escala de Jacobo. Each rapid in Infierno Canyon is separated by a swift pool which allows time for rescue and recovery if necessary. In the early afternoon we exit the canyon and raft down to Cave Camp. (NOTE: Participants have the option of riding a horse or hiking on a stunning trail around the canyon down to lunch).

The 1,000 acre Exploration Fitness Cave Camp is the most exotic and diverse river camp in the world. Not a cave in the true sense, but a massive overhanging white granite slab that rests on two boulders, the main stone shelter is referred to by the locals as the House of Stone. There is a sand floor, two large, natural skylights and giant centrally located fireplace in the rear wall that draws smoke through a crack. With an interior space of over 1,600 square feet, this natural wonder is large enough to ride a horse inside and can keep the entire group warm and dry under any conditions. Meals are served here during times of inclement weather.

Laguito Azul is set within a bowl of massive granite towers as high as 300 feet and surrounded by lush vegetation, Laguito Azul resembles a giant Japanese garden. Its brilliant blue water is so pure you can drink it and so clear you can see giant German brown trout and salmon of up to 25 pounds swimming 30 feet down. Kayaks are available and gliding over the transparent water feels almost surreal. A few hundred feet beyond Laguito Azul rages the most spectacular rapid on the river, Zeta, a Class 5+, Z-shaped flume cut into solid granite. Just downstream of Zeta, carved into the granite by the river in higher flows, is a heart-shaped, three-foot deep water-filled pothole, which we heat to 105°. With smooth, 45° sloping walls to lean against and fresh water every day, this chemical-free stone hot tub comfortably fits twelve people.

Soaking at night with the brilliant stars of the granite slot is something you’ll never forget. In the vicinity of the cliff dwellings is a large cliffside dining area, 18 person wooden hot tub and a second spring-fed swimming pond. The cliff dwellings, hot tub and dining area are all well hidden from the Futaleufu, yet through the trees they command the river’s most impressive camp view. A series of dramatic hand-hewn log sky bridges , 30 feet off the ground, link the Zeta dining/sleeping area to the main stone shelter. Downstream from Zeta Rapid is Lost Beach . This private beach is so tucked away that people float right by it on the main river without ever knowing it is there. The camp also has flush toilets and hot showers.

Day 5

Treehouse Camp – Tyrolean Traverse

This morning we set up a dramatic Tyrolean traverse across the river. Wearing a climbing harness attached to a pulley, participants pull themselves across a rope stretched between sheer granite walls over the heart of Zeta Rapid. Although not risky or particularly strenuous, hanging and then crossing over the class 6 rapid is extremely exhilarating.

Upon reaching the other side, we begin climbing out of the inner canyon. The moderately strenuous 1,500 vertical foot hike takes us past a beautiful 100 foot tributary waterfall and breathtaking views of the river and Cave Camp with dramatic peaks rising above it. Tucked away in the center of this enchanted, moss-draped land of giants is a 10 acre, 50 foot deep Lake of the Frogs. Cut out by the glacier, the lake drops straight off the edge like a giant infinity pool.

Surrounded by native old growth forest on three sides, with dramatic mountain views on the fourth, this intimate body of water offers wonderful opportunities for swimming and canoeing. A natural wood deck and a hand made 16 person hot tub sits on the edge of the lake. 35 feet up in a majestic closely-knit stand of old growth giant trees are 8 wonderful, hexagon shaped tree houses. They are connected like the spokes of a wheel from one central tree and a circular staircase. These amazing architectural gems are each unique and were hand crafted by a Chilean master carpenter.

In the afternoon there is the option of swimming and relaxing in the hot tub or taking a short hike to the breathtaking Tree House Camp Canyon Overlook. Engulfed by snow-capped mountains on all sides, this wonderful spot affords us 360 degree views including two gorgeous lakes and seven miles of the turquoise Futaleufu River canyon stretching as far as the eye can see. We spend the evening above the lower canopy with stunning views of the lake, surrounding forest and mountains.

Day 6

Treehouse and Cave Camp – Zipline Fun and Knife’s Edge

This morning we hike an hour and a half back down to the river. The trail ends at a 250 foot zip line. Like a giant “fun ride” we hold a loop handle attached to a pulley over our heads and leap off a 25 foot cliff, shooting 250 feet down an angled rope letting go into the pool below. A soak in the nearby 105° natural stone hot tub is the perfect transition from the 60° river.

On the cliff just above the hot tub there is a 10 to 42 foot high cliff jump into the aerated blue pool below. The aerated water cushions the impact by nearly half. Lunch that day is served near the stone hot tub on the smooth ledges at Zeta Rapid. After lunch we receive a climbing safety briefing and put on our climbing harnesses for the Tower climb. For those people not wishing to make the climb, options include; swimming at Lost beach, kayaking on the Blue Lake, trout fishing or relaxing in the stone hot tub. The tower climb involves a dynamic three-part rock climb up the backside of the 320 foot granite Torre de los Vientos (Tower of the Winds).

Once on top, we venture out on the dramatic Knife’s Edge, crossing its narrow natural bridge, with sheer 300 foot drop offs on either side. The views of Zeta Rapid, Laguito Azul and the surrounding canyon from the Knife’s Edge are exquisite and among the most impressive found on the river.

To descend from the tower we do a dramatic, 320 foot, two-stage rappel (self lowering by rope) off the Tower’s sheer north wall. For most people switching ropes at the mid- station is as exhilarating as any of the river’s class 5 rapids*. Once reaching the bottom of the tower, a short trail leads to the “Huck Finn” lake crossing which saves a mile hike around Lago Azul to get back to the cliff dwellings, hot tubs and dining area. We spend the night at the cave camp. *Note: An optional, less demanding, 100 ft. rappel off the back side of the tower is also available.

Day 7

Camp Mapu Leufu

This morning we spend a couple hours running a series of long, exciting class 4+ rapids, down to lunch on a beach at the confluence of the Futaleufu and turquoise Rio Azul River.

After lunch we paddle some more exciting class 4+ rapids down to the Mapu Leufu Camp. Situated on a secluded bluff, 120 feet over the river with dramatic 360° views, this 300-acre camp has over two miles of private riverfront. Hand-hewn wooden cliff dwellings offer breathtaking views of granite towers rising from the turquoise river. Dramatically perched on the cliff is an 18-person wooden hot tub. Meals are served outdoors at the cliff-side dining area with stunning views of granite spires rising from the turquoise river in one direction and glacier-capped, Alp-like peaks in the other. There is also a tributary stream with waterfalls and deep pools and a deep, spring-fed pond for kayak lessons for anyone interested. The camp also has flush toilets, hot showers like the other camps.

In the afternoon, we have the option of horseback riding or mountain biking on beautiful trails on the other side of the river accessed by a manual cable car or canyoneering through the 400 foot deep Rio Blanco slot canyo. Wearing wetsuits and river shoes, we hike, climb, and swim through this incredible natural labyrinth of white boulders, clear azure pools and waterfalls. Those people not wishing to partake in the Rio Blanco canyoning, can relax at camp.

Day 8

Camp Mapu Leufu – Terminator Rapid

Today is an impressive rafting day. * Within minutes of pushing off we enter class 5 Terminador Rapid, the most demanding rapid on the river. Immediately downstream of Terminador are the 15 foot waves of the Himalayas. In this stretch the rapids flow together making nearly a mile and a half of non-stop Class 5 action.

After the Himalayas, there is a series of giant Class 4+ rapids (some nearly a mile long) and two Class 5 rapids: Cojin (the cushion) and Mundaca. After another long stretch of Class 4+water, we have lunch.

In the afternoon we run two of the most difficult Class 5 rapids on the river; Mas o Menos and Casa De Piedra. After the last rapid, the canyon boasts some of its most impressive scenery with grand vistas of towering mountains and glaciers. In the early afternoon we take out and drive a few minutes to the Mapu Leufu trailhead and hike 1/2 hour on a beautiful trail into Mapu where we spend the night. Our farewell dinner that evening is a traditional Chilean Asado (roasted sheep over a fire) prepared by our neighbouring farmer and friend, Sugundo Zapata.

Day 9

Chaiten/Puerto Montt/Santiago

This morning we drive 2 and a half hours to the Chaiten Airport where we board the commuter flight to Puerto Montt. In Puerto Montt, we transfer to our flight to Santiago and then on to North America.

This morning we hike out of camp and take a 5 minute bus ride to our raft training put in. After a safety talk and flip drill we run a series of wonderful class 4 rapids. In the early afternoon we take out and drive 15 minutes to our inflatable kayak put in of the Rio Azul, a beautiful turquoise tributary of the Futaleufu. After kayak lesson we run the class 2 Azul down to the confluence with the Futaleufu and then kayak this beginner stretch of the Futaleufu down to the Terminador Camp where we spend the night.

Day 10

North America

This morning we arrive in the United States and transfer to our connecting flights home.

University Reading Week Special Feb.12-21,2018

Students can enjoy an additional $500 discount off our Patagonian adventure!

Preparation and Packing Information Chile

Once you have opened the .pdf, simply ‘save as’ (to save on your computer) and print out your forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do your ‘all-inclusive’ tours include international airfare?

Our all-inclusive international adventure tours include accommodations, meals, activities and all local transportation. Since Adventure Travelers arrive from all over the world to begin these tours, it’s not possible to include international airfare in our prices. However, we’d be happy to help you arrange your flights. Just ask for an ‘air quote’ when making your booking.

Can you help arrange my travel visas?

Currently, none of our available tours require travel visas, which makes things easier. However, if any of our upcoming tours destination require visas, we will help arrange your travel visa and provide you all the necessary resources and instructions upon booking your tour. From start to finish, our team of experts are hand-on, every step of the way.

What is the most appropriate type of luggage to bring and what should I pack?

Travel light and move fast is our motto. Having said that, the way our tours have been designed, you will not have to worry about getting stuck carrying suitcases on and off buses and trains. Furthermore, we provide you with a comprehensive preparation and packing list of everything you need to know and bring for each adventure tour. Simply click on the ‘Preparation and Packing List’ link to download the information.

What clothing should I pack for one of your adventures?

We always recommend packing as light as possible however the specific requirements for your tour will vary widely depending on where and when you are traveling. Our ‘Packing List’ document includes a suggested packing list and these can be downloaded from each individual trip summary page. The checklist is tour specific and based upon the experience of our expert staff.

Do we require vaccinations for any of your adventures?

Currently, none of our tours require vaccination. However, if any of our upcoming tour destinations require vaccinations, we will provide that information and resources to you upon inquiry. Please note: It is important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. The only one qualified to provide you with this advice is your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic.

How many people can join a tour?

We keep our group sizes low so that you get more personal attention from our adventure guides. Group sizes range from 8 to 16 participants. This intimate size ensures that your group will not crowd your experience.

What are the age restrictions on your tours?

To travel independently you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits for our tours as we provide an initial assessment to rule out any pre-existing medical conditions or physical injuries that may prevent your participation. The minimum age required to participate in our adventures ranges from 12 to 14 years of age when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (maximum of 2 children per adult).

I’m a single traveller, will I be charged a single supplement?

Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if you are travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement or rarely a mandatory single supplement.

An optional service that may be available is called “My Own Room”. This service allows solo travellers to request their own private room while on tour. The cost and the details vary by trip, so please contact our office for more details.

Can I change my hotel accommodation?

Some of our destinations do not include hotel rooms but rather tree houses and cave camps. So, if you prefer a specific tree house, I’m sure we can accommodate! For destinations with hotels, they are not available for change, as they are included in the set itinerary.

Can I join a tour late or leave it early?

It’s extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early, however, you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please contact our Travel Specialist before booking your tour.

Is local transportation included?

We provide the easiest way to adventure travel by assuring that all your local transportation within your trip itinerary will be covered. You will be responsible for all costs related to personal transportation not included in your itinerary (i.e.; transit or taxis on your free time).

Who are my travelling companions?

For privacy reasons we cannot provide you with advance details on your traveling companions. Our tours appeal to a wide range of travellers, most of whom are health conscious and share an adventurous spirit.

What does your sustainable and healthy brand mean to my trip experience?

Our brand of ‘Adventure Travel, Only Healthier.’, means that the locations you will travel to will be filled with natural, untouched landscapes. Our support for local farming in each of our destinations guarantees that the food you will be consuming is fresh, local and natural. Our physically healthy tours allows us to participate in activities every day, with minimal if no sight seeing – which you are welcomed to do on your free time instead of joining our ‘yoga downtime’. We strive to provide trips that make you feel stronger, enlightened, humbled, clear headed and more energized upon your return.

Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodation before or after my tour?

Yes, in most cases we can arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels. Our tours are also located in locations where you can easily plan an extended getaway. Please contact our office for more details about extended stay information.

Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?

Tips are not included in the tour price. Since our adventure tours are all-inclusive, we recommend tipping at about 5% of the cost of your trip.